In many cases, the end of the year gives you time to step back and take stock of the last 12 months. This is when many of us take a hard look at what worked and what did not, complete performance reviews, and formulate plans for the coming year. For me, it is all of those things plus a time when I u...

MISSION, KS -- (Marketwire) -- 11/29/12 -- (Family Features) When it comes to decking the halls in advance of a holiday party, there's nothing quite as festive as creating homemade decorations with the family. From handmade ornaments to shimmering trees, your party guests will catch that holiday spirit when they see the special décor created just for the event.

To help get you started, the inspiration experts at the Jo-Ann Stores have shared the following holiday craft ideas. These simple step-by-step projects are great for crafters at every level, and the best part is you can get the whole family involved.

Décor IdeasSmall touches can make a big impact on your guests. Use these ideas to add small details to your party decorations:

Create a winter wonderland - Teach the kids how to create paper snowflakes, then string them up throughout the house using fishing wire. From the dining room chandelier, to the windows, fireplace and staircase, you can create a flurry of snowflakes around the house in minutes.

Design a sparkling centerpiece - To get started, gather pinecones on a walk around the neighborhood. In a well-ventilated area, use glitter or metallic spray paint to completely coat the pine cones in silver and gold. Then simply stack in a glass bowl and place at the center of the table surrounded by sprigs of fresh greenery and holly branches.

Take your holiday décor above and beyond with these holiday craft project instructions for a Champagne Shimmer Tree and Glitter Glass Ball ornaments. Your guests will love walking into the winter wonderland you create just for the occasion.

For more holiday décor inspiration and craft projects, visit www.JoAnn.com.

Place glitter in plastic cup or other container. Remove the tape backing, and dip the glass ball into glitter, making sure to cover tape completely in glitter. Hang on tree.

Optional: Use the paintbrush and tacky glue to paint designs on the ornaments, then sprinkle with glitter. Allow to dry before hanging on tree.

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